Stop staring and start sewing!tag:typepad.com,2003:weblog-14179892015-02-24T22:46:57-08:00My name is Jona Giammalva and I want you to sew! And if you already sew then I want you to try some new things (because it's fun and will make you feel smarter than you were yesterday). Stay tuned for my adventures in the world of fabric and patterns and the best adventure of all, motherhood.TypePadMake a pillow cover with an invisible zipper (no pins needed!)tag:typepad.com,2003:post-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd4c47970c2015-02-24T22:46:57-08:002015-02-27T19:51:07-08:00Make a pillow cover with a seriously invisible zipper (and no pins required!).Stop Staring and Start Sewing!
<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><p>I'm going to show you how to make a smart and fabulous pillow cover with a truly invisible zipper!</p>
<p>Few things bring me more satisfaction than a well done invisible zipper. &nbsp;I see lots of tutorials for pillows with zippers and some call them "hidden zippers" but it drives me crazy because the zippers are behind the obvious fabric folds and there are seams showing the whole length on each side of the zipper (just a pet peeve of mine). &nbsp;It doesn't have to be that way! &nbsp;Installing an invisible zipper is no more difficult than sewing regular zippers (I think it's easier actually).</p>
<p>Here are the two pillows I've made recently. &nbsp;The top one is awesome. &nbsp;The bottom one has a poorly installed invisible zipper. &nbsp;The two big differences were 1. ironing the zipper coils first and 2. getting my sewing machine needle as close to the coil as possible while sewing. &nbsp;I'm going to take you through those steps as well as others to get a great finish!</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7ce5d970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7ce5d970d img-responsive" title="Rightwrong" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7ce5d970d-500wi" alt="Rightwrong" /></a></p>
<p>First, let's talk about invisible zippers. &nbsp;Invisible zippers are actually labeled "Invisible Zipper" (it's not just the outcome of the process, it's the actual name). &nbsp;On the left is a regular zipper which has exposed teeth and a square-ish zipper pull. &nbsp;On the right is an invisible zipper and you can't see the teeth at all plus the pull is long and tapered. Invisible zippers cost a little bit more but the great outcome makes up for the small price difference.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fc92970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fc92970b img-responsive" title="Zips" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fc92970b-500wi" alt="Zips" /></a></p>
<p>Now let's talk about zipper feet. &nbsp;Your sewing machine probably came with a zipper foot like the one on the left. &nbsp;This one will do the trick <strong><em>if</em></strong> your machine has the ability to shift the needle over to the side. The notched areas underneath each side enable you to get your zipper closer to the needle (but not all the way which is why you need to shift your needle over).</p>
<p>The foot on the right is a foot specifically for sewing invisible zippers (this one is from my Juki so it's got a higher shank but the grooves will be the same on a lower shank foot). &nbsp;If your needle can't be adjusted to the side you need something like this because it allows you to set the zipper right under and next to the needle without having to move the needle.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7ce89970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7ce89970d img-responsive" title="Difzips" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7ce89970d-500wi" alt="Difzips" /></a></p>
<p>If you don't want to invest in an invisible zipper foot quite yet you can get this plastic one, pictured below, made by Coats. They're a lot flimsier than the metal ones of course, but for <a href="http://www.joann.com/singer-invisible-zipper-foot-use-with-candc-art-f84/1033018.html" target="_self">2.50-ish</a> it's a great way to see if you like the grooved foot before buying a metal one.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fa15970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fa15970b img-responsive" title="Coatszip" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fa15970b-500wi" alt="Coatszip" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>Besides a suitable zipper foot, you'll need the supplies below:</p>
<p>1.&nbsp;Two fabric squares cut the same dimensions as your pillow form. &nbsp;My pillow form is 18 x 18 and I cut the fabric squares 18 x 18 so I get a finished cover of approximately 17 x 17 inches.</p>
<p>2. One invisible zipper at least 4 inches longer than your fabric pieces (my zipper is around 22-24 inches long).</p>
<p>3. One Elmers-type glue stick. &nbsp;I use the stuff that is purple before it dries.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fa23970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fa23970b img-responsive" title="IMG_2228" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fa23970b-500wi" alt="IMG_2228" /></a></p>
<p>Your first step is to unzip your zipper and iron the coils so they lay as flat as possible (this will enable you to really get your needle up next to it).</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fa2c970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fa2c970b img-responsive" title="IMG_2233" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fa2c970b-500wi" alt="IMG_2233" /></a></p>
<p>Here's a picture of one side of a zipper before and after ironing. &nbsp;I really applied a lot of heat and took my time to really get it to "uncurl" and lay flat. &nbsp;</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd43f6970c-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd43f6970c img-responsive" title="Zipper1" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd43f6970c-500wi" alt="Zipper1" /></a></p>
<p>Lay your zipper on one side of the fabric and mark both sides of the zipper about 1.5" from the end of your fabric. <em>The zipper pull is face down</em> when you mark it (more detailed picture next).</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fa4d970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fa4d970b img-responsive" title="IMG_2235" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fa4d970b-500wi" alt="IMG_2235" /></a></p>
<p>Here's an example of how your zipper will lie when you start gluing it in place (yes glue!). &nbsp;I've zipped this one up partly so you can see that the zipper pull is <em>face down</em>. &nbsp;You'll need to unzip it completely for the next few stages.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7d31c970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7d31c970d img-responsive" title="IMG_2301" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7d31c970d-500wi" alt="IMG_2301" /></a></p>
<p>Glue along the whole edge where your zipper will be sewn. &nbsp;Place a piece of paper under it so you don't get glue on your ironing surface. The glue dries pretty quickly so have everything ready when you get started.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7ced9970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7ced9970d img-responsive" title="IMG_2238" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7ced9970d-500wi" alt="IMG_2238" /></a></p>
<p>Once you have the zipper pressed in place along the edge you want to heat set the glue with your iron. &nbsp;Just set it on top of the zipper and press and it will dry the glue enough to hold it while you work with it. &nbsp;I've used glue for a long time but it was my friend <a href="http://purpledaisiesquilting.com/" target="_self">Cristy Fincher</a> who showed me you need to heat set it with your iron (it changed everything for the better!). If the glue is drying before you can get to this part then do this process in two parts (glue half way up, set your zipper, heat press and then glue the rest of the way to the end and repeat the process).</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fa58970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fa58970b img-responsive" title="IMG_2239" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fa58970b-500wi" alt="IMG_2239" /></a></p>
<p>This glue seriously holds! &nbsp;So much more accurate and reliable than straight pins.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7cef0970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7cef0970d img-responsive" title="IMG_2241" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7cef0970d-500wi" alt="IMG_2241" /></a></p>
<p>Now flip your glued part over on top of the other fabric piece (like the picture below) and repeat the glueing process on the edge of this piece.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd4427970c-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd4427970c img-responsive" title="IMG_2242" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd4427970c-500wi" alt="IMG_2242" /></a></p>
<p>Make sure your edges and the marked lines match up.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7cf06970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7cf06970d img-responsive" title="IMG_2243" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7cf06970d-500wi" alt="IMG_2243" /></a></p>
<p>Here's what it all looks like when the zipper is glued and heat set in place. &nbsp;You're ready to sew!</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd4441970c-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd4441970c img-responsive" title="IMG_2244" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd4441970c-500wi" alt="IMG_2244" /></a></p>
<p>Place your zipper under the zipper foot and adjust your needle so it's right next to the coil. &nbsp;Don't start stitching at the very end of the pillow piece but start about 1/4" before the mark you made. &nbsp;Backstitch and start sewing the length of the zipper.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7cf89970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7cf89970d img-responsive" title="Needle" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7cf89970d-500wi" alt="Needle" /></a></p>
<p>Stop stitching just 1/4" past the other side of the mark you made at the other end. &nbsp;Backstitch.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7cf98970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7cf98970d img-responsive" title="Zipperstitch" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7cf98970d-500wi" alt="Zipperstitch" /></a></p>
<p>Now repeat that process on the other piece of fabric.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fafb970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fafb970b img-responsive" title="IMG_2250" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fafb970b-500wi" alt="IMG_2250" /></a></p>
<p>Place your fabric pieces right sides together and pull your zipper in so it's no longer hanging off the end of the pillow pieces. &nbsp;Don't pull it all the way shut. &nbsp;Now you're going to finish stitching the length of the zipper side. &nbsp;Pull your zipper "tail" up and out of the way.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fb0a970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fb0a970b img-responsive" title="IMG_2253" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fb0a970b-500wi" alt="IMG_2253" /></a></p>
<p>Now dab some glue on the un-sewn corners.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fb10970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fb10970b img-responsive" title="IMG_2254" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fb10970b-500wi" alt="IMG_2254" /></a></p>
<p>Heat set.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7cfc8970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7cfc8970d img-responsive" title="IMG_2256" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7cfc8970d-500wi" alt="IMG_2256" /></a></p>
<p>Here are both ends (folded so you can see both). They are glued shut at the corners and the zipper "tails" are out of the way.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd44ec970c-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd44ec970c img-responsive" title="IMG_2258" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd44ec970c-500wi" alt="IMG_2258" /></a></p>
<p>Now use your marker to make the sewing line on each end. &nbsp;Draw a straight line from the end and go past the end of the zipper stitch by 1/2".</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd44f3970c-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd44f3970c img-responsive" title="IMG_2259" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd44f3970c-500wi" alt="IMG_2259" /></a></p>
<p>Move your zipper foot over to the other side, adjust your needle over so it's on your line, and stitch along your line past your zipper stitch. &nbsp;Backstitch.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fb36970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fb36970b img-responsive" title="Sewends" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fb36970b-500wi" alt="Sewends" /></a></p>
<p>Now cut the zipper tails off (use cruddy scissors for this).</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fb49970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fb49970b img-responsive" title="IMG_2265" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fb49970b-500wi" alt="IMG_2265" /></a></p>
<p>Cut both ends of the zipper off.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd453d970c-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd453d970c img-responsive" title="IMG_2266" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd453d970c-500wi" alt="IMG_2266" /></a></p>
<p>Open your pillow and press your seam. &nbsp;Isn't this lovely?? &nbsp;Once you've pressed this seam you'll need to&nbsp;<em>unzip your zipper about halfway down the length of the pillow</em> (or you won't be about to get your hand inside your pillow to turn it right side out once you've finished stitching all the way around it).</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7d011970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7d011970d img-responsive" title="IMG_2268" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7d011970d-500wi" alt="IMG_2268" /></a></p>
<p>Did you remember to unzip your zipper? &nbsp;Good. Now fold your pillow back together (right sides together). Glue and heat set the edges of the pillow pieces all the way around the perimeter. &nbsp;Keep your edges even and lined up neatly.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fb84970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fb84970b img-responsive" title="Perimeter" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c753fb84970b-500wi" alt="Perimeter" /></a></p>
<p>Now use a 1/2" seam allowance and stitch all the way around starting at the zipper edge.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7d4c2970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7d4c2970d img-responsive" title="IMG_2272" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7d4c2970d-500wi" alt="IMG_2272" /></a></p>
<p>Rather than pivoting at the corner, just stitch all the way off the edge (but backstitch at the spot where you would've pivoted). &nbsp;Then start sewing again on the next side (again backstitch at the spot where the two stitches intersect).</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7d033970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7d033970d img-responsive" title="Backstitch" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7d033970d-500wi" alt="Backstitch" /></a></p>
<p>Once you're done sewing snip your corners off.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd4591970c-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd4591970c img-responsive" title="IMG_2276" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd4591970c-500wi" alt="IMG_2276" /></a></p>
<p>On the corners near the zipper you'll want to trim off a little of the seam allowance on the side too (this will give you sharper corners here).</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7d041970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7d041970d img-responsive" title="Cutsides" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7d041970d-500wi" alt="Cutsides" /></a></p>
<p>Start turning it right side out and poke your corners out (you can use a chopstick point or something similar to get a good corner).</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7d047970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7d047970d img-responsive" title="IMG_2279" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7d047970d-500wi" alt="IMG_2279" /></a></p>
<p>Lay your pillow cover flat and press your seams open as much as you can.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd45d1970c-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd45d1970c img-responsive" title="IMG_2280" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd45d1970c-500wi" alt="IMG_2280" /></a></p>
<p>Here it is, nice and finished and ready to be stuffed. &nbsp;Nice clean lines, a discreet zipper, <em>and you didn't use one pin the whole time</em>.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7d05b970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7d05b970d img-responsive" title="IMG_2281" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7d05b970d-500wi" alt="IMG_2281" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;Squish your pillow form up and stuff it into your new, beautiful cover. &nbsp;Take care to stuff it into the corners too. &nbsp;Now zip it up. &nbsp;Isn't it pretty? &nbsp;Pat yourself on the back now. &nbsp;Do it.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd45eb970c-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd45eb970c img-responsive" title="IMG_2282" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dd45eb970c-500wi" alt="IMG_2282" /></a></p>
<p>Now you can enjoy them forever.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7d073970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7d073970d img-responsive" title="IMG_2295" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f7d073970d-500wi" alt="IMG_2295" /></a></p>
<p>Let me know how it works for you!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<center><img src="http://jonag.typepad.com/photos/misc_graphics/signaturetransparent.png" alt="" /><br /><br /></center></div>
New parsons chair slipcovers for my dining roomtag:typepad.com,2003:post-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c7526b7a970b2015-02-23T09:43:22-08:002015-02-27T19:51:42-08:00I made beautiful slipcovers for my Craigslist parsons chairs....Stop Staring and Start Sewing!
<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><p>&nbsp;I've been focusing most of my sewing/decorating focus in my dining room lately. &nbsp;I'm getting desperate to have things finished instead of "in the process". &nbsp;A few more things and I'll call this room done. &nbsp;But covering the chairs was the biggest part of it so it's quite an accomplishment and I'm ready to show it off.</p>
<p>A couple of years ago I was watching Season 3 of Sarah Richardson's show on HGTV and fell in love with the dotted fabric on the kitchen chairs (<a href="http://www.sarahrichardsondesign.com/portfolio/sarahs-house-3/kitchen" target="_blank">pictures here</a>). &nbsp;Unfortunately for me, the fabric is over 30.00 a yard. &nbsp;Ouch. &nbsp;When I saw this Birch (like a barkcloth texture) <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/221003368/1-yard-premier-prints-fabric-1-yd-ikat?ref=shop_home_active_9" target="_blank">Ikat Dot Nova Grey</a> home dec print from Premier Prints I had a feeling this was just what I was looking for. &nbsp;I bought a yard just to check it out and it's absolutely perfect. &nbsp;It's grey with creamy dots so the overall effect is a perfect "greige". I have more <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/221003368/1-yard-premier-prints-fabric-1-yd-ikat?ref=shop_home_active_9" target="_blank">here</a> in my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/Fabritopia" target="_blank">Fabritopia</a> store and it's only 12.99 a yard! &nbsp;Each chair has taken about 1.5 yards so it's been a very reasonable and beautiful solution.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f63603970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f63603970d img-responsive" title="IMG_2209" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f63603970d-500wi" alt="IMG_2209" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;Here's what I started with. &nbsp;I bought 6 of these parsons chairs from a Craigslist add for 65.00 (plus they threw in a table for free which I used as a desk for awhile then got rid of). &nbsp;They are comfortable and the fabric was in good shape so they looked fine with everything but I wanted them to look super fine.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dbb25b970c-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dbb25b970c img-responsive" title="IMG_2076" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dbb25b970c-500wi" alt="IMG_2076" /></a></p>
<p>I looked all over for a pattern and ended up purchasing one but I didn't like all the extra pieces (I knew with some pleats and corners it could be simplified and still look smart). I took the process nice and slow with the first one since I knew I needed a good pattern in order for the other 5 to be easy. &nbsp;I used muslin for the pattern pieces and started sewing, seam ripping, and sewing again until the fit was nice. &nbsp;I started with the seat.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c7526b07970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c7526b07970b img-responsive" title="IMG_2006" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c7526b07970b-500wi" alt="IMG_2006" /></a><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dbb25b970c-popup"><br /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;I then added the seat back and worked hard to get the pleats at the top corners nice and tight and made sure the seam where the two pieces met was low enough to not pull apart from the pressure of someone sitting but high enough to not look baggy the rest of the time.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dbb286970c-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dbb286970c img-responsive" title="IMG_2031" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dbb286970c-500wi" alt="IMG_2031" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;When I added the back piece I knew it would need to open up a little in order to slide onto the chair (it's wider at the top than the bottom). The pleat opens about 7 inches from the top so it's not baggy. &nbsp;I wasn't careful to match my dot pattern with this back piece but if fixed that on the other 5 so you can't really see the seam (and this one goes against the wall where nobody can see the back!).</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dbb294970c-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dbb294970c img-responsive" title="IMG_2039" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dbb294970c-500wi" alt="IMG_2039" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;I wanted the skirt to look finished but still be soft looking and these gently flared pleats did the trick. &nbsp;Plus the piping gives it a smart finish. &nbsp;This first one was a little droopy at the front of the seat so I raised the pattern up in that spot for the rest of them. &nbsp;I'm okay with the first chair being less-than-perfect (it took me awhile to get to the place in life!).</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dbb2ee970c-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dbb2ee970c img-responsive" title="IMG_2070" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dbb2ee970c-500wi" alt="IMG_2070" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>I just made a simple, but crisp, bow to pull the pleat together in the back. &nbsp;I considered a button and loop, a frog closure, hidden hook and eye...but finally settled on the bow. &nbsp;I really like it.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dc2456970c-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dc2456970c img-responsive" title="IMG_2069" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0dc2456970c-500wi" alt="IMG_2069" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;So here's my room at this point and I couldn't be happier. &nbsp;It looks like somebody cared enough to take care of the details. &nbsp;I'm shopping for a new light fixture next.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f63678970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f63678970d img-responsive" title="IMG_2216" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f63678970d-500wi" alt="IMG_2216" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;And Joey found these <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/S19861424/" target="_blank">HENRIKSDAL&nbsp;</a>chairs for the end of the table in the AS IS section of IKEA. &nbsp;They were half price and are a close enough match that I don't know if anyone will even notice the difference one they're covered. &nbsp;I'm working on a pattern right now and will be able to make it available to others since these chairs are easier for folks to get.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c7526b74970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c7526b74970b img-responsive" title="IMG_2206" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c7526b74970b-500wi" alt="IMG_2206" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;That's all!&nbsp;</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f63687970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f63687970d img-responsive" title="IMG_2221" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07f63687970d-500wi" alt="IMG_2221" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Have a great week and keep on sewing!!!</p>
<center><img src="http://jonag.typepad.com/photos/misc_graphics/signaturetransparent.png" alt="" /><br /><br /></center></div>
The post in which I bribe you with lemons and share some cool stufftag:typepad.com,2003:post-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0d29677970c2015-02-08T18:41:02-08:002015-02-27T19:51:56-08:00The nutshell: 1. I've started a new business and I want you to "like" my facebook page. 2. I'm having a drawing next week from all my facebook "likers" and the winner gets a big box of lemons fresh off...Stop Staring and Start Sewing!
<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><p>The nutshell:</p>
<p>1. I've started a <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/homehaberdasher" target="_blank">new business</a> and I want you to "like" <a href="https://www.facebook.com/homehaberdasher" target="_self">my facebook page</a>. &nbsp;</p>
<p>2. I'm having a drawing next week from all my facebook "likers" and the winner gets a big box of lemons fresh off my trees (I can only ship in the US, sorry). &nbsp;The drawing will be within a week since the lemons NEED to be picked now.</p>
<p>3. All items in the new store are 20% off in February with the coupon code LEMON2015.</p>
<p>(Oh, and follow our store on instagram "homehaberdasher")</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c7493545970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c7493545970b img-responsive" title="IMG_2138" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c7493545970b-500wi" alt="IMG_2138" /></a></p>
<p>The whole store is below:&nbsp;</p>
<p>I've taken a nice long break from blogging and it's been good. &nbsp;I've been busy. &nbsp;Very busy. &nbsp;Things are changing and I'm trying to figure out how to adjust my blog in the process. &nbsp;I started this blog in 2007 and life has changed, I've changed, my <a title="baby Skate" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/stop_staring_and_start_se/2007/09/orange-again.html" target="_blank">baby</a> is a big old 3rd grader now... &nbsp;I've had oodles of thoughts and ideas floating around in my head that past couple of years and they are finally starting to fall into an orderly-ish place in my mind. &nbsp;This last year was so consumed with our daughter's (beautiful) wedding that we hardly had time to focus on anything else besides making it to that blessed date and then collapsing.</p>
<p>But here we are in a new year, and actually a new season of life, with a little more space on our plates for some new things. &nbsp;So why not start a new business? &nbsp;Check out <a title="Home Haberdasher store" href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/homehaberdasher" target="_blank">Home Haberdasher</a>! &nbsp;It's just a little thing right now but I have so many great plans for it and hope it grows big enough to make a difference not just for us, but for other folks looking for a way to make money from home (think Pampered Chef type of thing). &nbsp;I've already lured my newlywed daughter Peety away from her job at Target to her post here as Employee #1. &nbsp;She's smart as a whip and is managing a lot of the graphic work already (yessss!), plus sewing, photography, cleaning (double yesssss!), and everything else that needs to be done.</p>
<p>Here she is overcoming her fear of my electric rotary cutter. &nbsp;Every day is casual dress day here at Home Haberdasher (pajamas are acceptable attire as well).</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0d28fe2970c-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0d28fe2970c img-responsive" title="IMG_1605" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0d28fe2970c-500wi" alt="IMG_1605" /></a></p>
<p>I've used this new situation to "practice" with our new, glorious fabrics on my own home. &nbsp;Here is our new sewing/fabric storage room in the process of being converted from <a title="my green office" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/stop_staring_and_start_se/2009/03/now-all-i-need-is-a-red-swingline-stapler.html" target="_blank">my office</a>. &nbsp;Why not have a glamorous work space? &nbsp;I call these curtains "glamorjack" since the the main print is so glamorous but the checkered trim adds a lumberjack touch to it.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c7493169970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c7493169970b img-responsive" title="IMG_1782" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c7493169970b-500wi" alt="IMG_1782" /></a></p>
<p>With tie backs to let the Arizona glow in.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07ecd708970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07ecd708970d img-responsive" title="IMG_2114" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07ecd708970d-500wi" alt="IMG_2114" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>And here is my now splendid dining room after making new drapes (unlined to let the sun through). &nbsp;My heart leaps every time I walk into this room. &nbsp;Our new store is selling custom made drapes and they are soooo much more reasonably priced than Pottery Barn and other places that sell a quality product (these fabrics are far better than anything you'll find at a Target type of store which is why I can't get enough of them).</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07ecd7d5970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07ecd7d5970d img-responsive" title="IMG_1993" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07ecd7d5970d-500wi" alt="IMG_1993" /></a></p>
<p>I love this little corner here....</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07ecd8d5970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07ecd8d5970d img-responsive" title="IMG_2110" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07ecd8d5970d-500wi" alt="IMG_2110" /></a></p>
<p>Here is the evolution of this dining room in the past few years (after it was a grimy concrete floored tv room for a couple of years but that's a whole 'nother Oprah show...).</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c74932e2970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c74932e2970b img-responsive" title="Dining3" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c74932e2970b-500wi" alt="Dining3" /></a></p>
<p>My work is done here. &nbsp;Oh wait...I'm making slipcovers for all of my dining chairs....</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0d292f1970c-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0d292f1970c img-responsive" title="IMG_2078" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0d292f1970c-500wi" alt="IMG_2078" /></a></p>
<p>Yeah, these are gorgeous. &nbsp;I'm serious. &nbsp;<a title="Nova Grey Ikat Dots" href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/221003368/1-yard-premier-prints-fabric-1-yd-ikat?ref=shop_home_active_2" target="_blank">This fabric</a> is amazing and I can't stop. &nbsp;</p>
<p>Over time I will continue to add more of these great fabrics from the fine folks at Premier Prints, Inc. (it's all made in the USA!) and help people make pretty things with them.</p>
<p>So here's the plan:</p>
<p>1. Build up our new <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/homehaberdasher" target="_blank">Home Haberdasher</a> business to the point where it supports itself and then expand it to provide jobs and opportunities for more people.</p>
<p>2. Re-build <a title="Fabritopia on etsy" href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/Fabritopia" target="_blank">Fabritopia</a> (it's starting already) filling it with gorgeous fabrics from Premier Prints, Inc. &nbsp;</p>
<p>3. Create video tutorials to help folks with all sorts of sewing projects. This will be fun!</p>
<p>4. Get my stores off Etsy (the fees are killing me!) on back onto an independent website.</p>
<p>5. Hand my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/HipsterHaberdasher" target="_blank">Hipster Haberdasher</a> store over to one of my kids (it's been such a blessing but I'm tired!).</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>So here's where the lemons come in! &nbsp;Last year I had a drawing for a big box of lemons and the response was amazing (the lemons were amazing). &nbsp;This year I'm doing it again but I'm drawing from all the folks that like my new <a title="Home Haberdasher Facebook page" href="https://www.facebook.com/homehaberdasher" target="_blank">Home Haberdasher facebook page</a>. &nbsp;We will be having regular sales and give aways and hope you will check us out and stick with me as I begin this new venture.</p>
<p>Right now (through February) you can buy anything at the store and get 20% off our already lower-than-the-competition prices with the coupon code LEMON2015. &nbsp;Seriously! &nbsp;Get new drapes, pillows, table runners, etc.... at a killer price!</p>
<p>Lot's more coming up! &nbsp;Keep on sewing!! &nbsp;XOXO</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p><center><img src="http://jonag.typepad.com/photos/misc_graphics/signaturetransparent.png" alt="" /><br /><br /></center></div>
You can make your own nativity scene (a tutorial and pattern)tag:typepad.com,2003:post-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c71ae00b970b2014-12-08T20:12:58-08:002015-02-27T19:52:17-08:00After years of wishing and hoping (and a little bit of nagging) I finally have a beautiful nativity scene for my front yard and I love it. I did a lot of searching through clipart sites until I found the...Stop Staring and Start Sewing!
<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><p>After years of wishing and hoping (and a little bit of nagging) I finally have a beautiful nativity scene for my front yard and I love it. &nbsp;I did a lot of searching through clipart sites until I found the silhouette that I really liked and one that would translate well into a large sized cut out. &nbsp;This one even has coordinating silhouettes for the 3 Wise Men for next years project. &nbsp;We made the star a couple of years ago using <a href="http://www.littlebitfunky.com/2012/11/20-minute-crafter-make-giant-star-for.html" target="_blank">this tutorial </a>on Little Bit Funky.</p>
<p>I spy a little doggy in the window.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c71ad6ad970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c71ad6ad970b img-responsive" title="IMG_1526" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c71ad6ad970b-500wi" alt="IMG_1526" /></a></p>
<p>I sized the design to be able to fit on one 4x4 piece of plywood (about 24.00). &nbsp;My hubby had the nice folks at Home Depot trim a 15 inch strip off so it would fit in the back of our car (the 15 inch strip was the right size for the Joseph piece).</p>
<p>Here is the pdf file if you're interested in making one yourself. &nbsp;Just <a href="/holyfamilytrace.pdf" target="_blank">click here </a>or on the picture below to download. &nbsp;I traced the design so it would use less printer ink and included a mini version of it so you can see how all the pieces should go together. &nbsp;Each grid represents one 8.5 x 11 piece of paper.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" title="Holy Family PDF for tracing" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/holyfamilytrace.pdf" target="_blank"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0a4bcab970c img-responsive" title="Holyfamilypic" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0a4bcab970c-500wi" alt="Holyfamilypic" /></a></p>
<p>Once the pieces were all taped together Joey cut out each individual character and traced them on the smooth side of the plywood sheet (this is the 15" strip he had cut).</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0a4bccb970c-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0a4bccb970c img-responsive" title="IMG_1504" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0a4bccb970c-500wi" alt="IMG_1504" /></a></p>
<p>The Mary and Baby Jesus fit best like this on the other piece of the plywood.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c71ad6c3970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c71ad6c3970b img-responsive" title="IMG_1505" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c71ad6c3970b-500wi" alt="IMG_1505" /></a></p>
<p>To cut out the inside holes he used the big drill bit to drill holes around the inside edges so he could get the jigsaw in there easily.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c71ad6c8970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c71ad6c8970b img-responsive" title="IMG_1509" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c71ad6c8970b-500wi" alt="IMG_1509" /></a></p>
<p>He took his time with this part and did a great job. &nbsp;The jigsaw kind of scares me so I'm glad he was doing this.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c71ad6d5970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c71ad6d5970b img-responsive" title="IMG_1510" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c71ad6d5970b-500wi" alt="IMG_1510" /></a></p>
<p>Tada! &nbsp;It came out great and the halo and the little "hay" details look fantastic.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0a4bd7c970c-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0a4bd7c970c img-responsive" title="IMG_1514" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0a4bd7c970c-500wi" alt="IMG_1514" /></a></p>
<p>After he was done cutting the pieces out he quickly filed the rough edges away.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07bfcfed970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07bfcfed970d img-responsive" title="IMG_1515" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07bfcfed970d-500wi" alt="IMG_1515" /></a></p>
<p>One good coat of white paint was sufficient.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c71ad6f7970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c71ad6f7970b img-responsive" title="IMG_1521" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c71ad6f7970b-500wi" alt="IMG_1521" /></a></p>
<p>Then he made the base using 2 x 4s and angle brackets. &nbsp;The front one is 48" long and the sides are 24". &nbsp;The back board is a 2 x 2 and he decided to use that in case he wanted to weigh it down with some flat brick caps of something. &nbsp;So far we haven't needed them but it hasn't been windy. I painted the front 2 x 4 white as well.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0a4bdf3970c-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0a4bdf3970c img-responsive" title="IMG_1520" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0a4bdf3970c-500wi" alt="IMG_1520" /></a></p>
<p>When everything was done he just used some screws to attach each piece to the 2 x 4. &nbsp;It will be easy to dismantle and store this way. &nbsp;He also bought a small flood light (and extension cord) to light it from the front. &nbsp;Pretty!</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c71ad700970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c71ad700970b img-responsive" title="IMG_1528" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c71ad700970b-500wi" alt="IMG_1528" /></a></p>
<p>So here it is and I'm in love with it! &nbsp;Let me know if you try it!</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07bfd015970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07bfd015970d img-responsive" title="IMG_1527" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07bfd015970d-500wi" alt="IMG_1527" /></a></p>
<p>I hope you're having a great Christmas and Hanukkah season! &nbsp;If you're looking for some ideas for hand crafted gifts don't forget to check <a href="http://jonag.typepad.com/stop_staring_and_start_se/my-tutorials.html" target="_self">my tutorial page</a>. &nbsp;Keep on sewing!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p><center><img src="http://jonag.typepad.com/photos/misc_graphics/signaturetransparent.png" alt="" /><br /><br /></center></div>
My master bath mega spruce up re-dotag:typepad.com,2003:post-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c7061ac8970b2014-11-13T14:56:59-08:002015-02-27T19:52:32-08:00We have lived in this house for 11 years and up until about a month ago I've never had a shower curtain in my master bathroom (and it's been this depressing brown color for 10 years). I put up with...Stop Staring and Start Sewing!
<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><p>We have lived in this house for 11 years and up until about a month ago I've <em>never</em> had a shower curtain in my master bathroom (and it's been this depressing brown color for 10 years). I put up with it because nobody but our family ever saw it so I just kept putting off making changes even though I have truly <strong>hated it</strong> forever. &nbsp;</p>
<p>Well, with <a href="http://jonag.typepad.com/stop_staring_and_start_se/2014/10/she-said-yes-to-my-dress.html" target="_self">the wedding</a> planning in full swing we knew we'd have to get the house in better shape since there would be a lot more people coming and going (and staying for a bit too). &nbsp;And even though nobody really comes into the master bedroom area I still wanted to not feel like cringing if it happened.</p>
<p>So here it was with paint swatches, a broken towel hook, and a pathetic shower curtain liner. &nbsp;And mismatched finishes everywhere.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0900df0970c-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0900df0970c img-responsive" title="IMG_0952" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0900df0970c-500wi" alt="IMG_0952" /></a></p>
<p>Here it is now! &nbsp;Calm, fresh, pretty, and much more organized. &nbsp;Oh and Hello! A shower curtain! &nbsp;The paint is Sea Salt (by Sherwin Williams but I did a Behr color match in Satin finish). &nbsp;This is my favorite paint color ever and it was an easy choice since I still had a bunch left over from painting the downstairs. &nbsp;I even painted the ceiling!</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c70615d7970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c70615d7970b img-responsive" title="DSC_0001" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c70615d7970b-500wi" alt="DSC_0001" /></a></p>
<p>Here is the corner behind the door. &nbsp;I took advantage of that blank wall and added some <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/categories/departments/kitchen/series/21592/" target="_self">containers from IKEA</a> to hang my cosmetics, blow dryer, etc. I used the rest of the shower curtain fabric for this simple, but fun valance. I was so excited about it I super-scrubbed my dusty blinds (a loathsome task).</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c7061605970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c7061605970b img-responsive" title="Bathba3" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c7061605970b-500wi" alt="Bathba3" /></a></p>
<p>Here's a close up of the storage. &nbsp;I splurged and spent about 60 dollars for all the pieces.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07ab5d70970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07ab5d70970d img-responsive" title="DSC_0015" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07ab5d70970d-500wi" alt="DSC_0015" /></a></p>
<p>We put the finishing touch on last weekend when our neighbors had this shiny new light fixture in their garage sale (they just gave it to us) and it totally matches the style of the other finishes. &nbsp;Win!</p>
<p>Fresh paint on the doorknob (hammered black metal spray paint), a re-purposed clock (taken from my old office), fresh new towels from Target (just 3.50 each), and that cute "French" sign from World Market (10.00) and it doesn't even look like the same room.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c7061689970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c7061689970b img-responsive" title="Bathba5" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c7061689970b-500wi" alt="Bathba5" /></a></p>
<p>I realized I have a bad habit of buying things that I like without considering the "big picture". &nbsp;I got this cute hook on the left and then realized it didn't match anything. &nbsp;So Home Depot came through with the nice silver ones in the right picture (at only 3.00-ish each). &nbsp;Back on track.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0900f1a970c-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0900f1a970c img-responsive" title="Bathba6" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0900f1a970c-500wi" alt="Bathba6" /></a></p>
<p>Here's my cute little toilet corner. &nbsp;Yes, you can reach the toilet paper from the toilet! &nbsp;And the air freshener types of things in the middle come in handy but I especially like being able to grab a fresh wash cloth from the shower. &nbsp;<a href="http://jonag.typepad.com/stop_staring_and_start_se/2011/04/towel-tab-tutorial-truly.html" target="_self">Towel tab tutorial here</a>.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0900f39970c-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0900f39970c img-responsive" title="IMG_1211" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0900f39970c-500wi" alt="IMG_1211" /></a></p>
<p>I was completely inspired by <a href="http://www.ourfifthhouse.com/2012/09/window-box-bathroom-storage-perfect-for.html" target="_self">this blog post here</a> at Our Fifth House (cute stuff over there!) and found the baskets at Michaels for around 8 bucks each (half of sale) and the wall hooks at Home Depot for about 9 bucks for all three sets). &nbsp;The baskets had metal handles which Joey sawed off and then re-wrapped the edges with the extra wicker stuff so you'd never know. &nbsp;The little numbers are Tim Holtz designs I got at Michaels (stitched on with twine).&nbsp;</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0900f67970c-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0900f67970c img-responsive" title="DSC_0003" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b8d0900f67970c-500wi" alt="DSC_0003" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;I wanted to show you how I got the stripes to match up so beautifully on my shower curtain since that can be tricky. &nbsp;I just used my <a href="http://purpledaisiesquilting.com/products/original-glue-tips" target="_self">glue tip</a> that I got from Cristy at Purple Daisies LLC and pressed it all together and it didn't shift one bit while stitching.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c706171b970b-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c706171b970b img-responsive" title="IMG_0965" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301b7c706171b970b-500wi" alt="IMG_0965" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;One last look! &nbsp;Such an improvement! &nbsp;And I'm HAPPY when I come in here and see how pretty it easy (happy to clean it too actually!).</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" style="display: inline;" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false" href="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07ab5e5a970d-popup"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07ab5e5a970d img-responsive" title="IMG_1214" src="http://jonag.typepad.com/.a/6a00e54ecc8988883301bb07ab5e5a970d-500wi" alt="IMG_1214" /></a></p><center><img src="http://jonag.typepad.com/photos/misc_graphics/signaturetransparent.png" alt="" /><br /><br /></center></div>